Computer Basics

1) Never use the CD that comes with your Internet Service Provider
2) Never use the CD that comes with: printers, cameras etc. (drivers only if necessary)
3) Never use your Internet Service Providers page as your Homepage
4) Never use Instant Messaging Programs
5) Never use Social Networking Sites
6) Never move Windows System Files from the "C" drive to another drive
7) Never copy Windows System Files to any other drives except to write a CD/DVD
8) Never delete a Windows System file or folder from the "C" drive
9) Never use regedit and delete "C" drive folders
10) Never click / open an e-mail from an unknown person / business
11) Never click / open on a blinking ad or any ad on a webpage
12) Never have a program update itself except for your Anti-Virus Program and   Windows
13) Never delete an icon / folder that was placed there by the Windows O.S.
14) Never leave computer on 24 / 7 or all day and shut down at night

1) Always adjust Settings after installing ANY software program making sure program doesn't start with Windows or automatically updates itself...except for your Anti-Virus program (verify by using: Start / Run type: msconfig / Enter...click on the Start-up Tab uncheck all except for your Anti-Virus program) rare exceptions include: CD/DVD drives and touchpads
2) Always create a folder within My Documents / My Downloads when downloading Files and or Programs
3) Always click on Custom from within Windows Update to access all possible updates
4) Always get all Windows Updates (Windows O.S. works better as a package)
5) Always install Windows Components from Add / Remove Programs and Features except Windows Messenger
6) Always run weekly: Windows Update, Anti-Virus Program, Disk Clean-Up, Disk Defragmenter...(more often is OK)
7) Always Add / Remove Hardware correctly using "Safely Remove Hardware" from the Taskbar
8) Always run monthly: "C" drive "Error checking"
     a) Rt. click on MY Computer (XP) Computer (Vista, Windows 7)
     b) Click on "Properties"
     c) Click on "Tools" tab
     d) Click on "Error Checking"...check both boxes
     e) Close down each box on screen and Reboot (restart) computer as instructed
     f) Computer will automatically reboot when finished 
9 Always keep a BACKUP of your "C" drive onto an external drive or 2nd drive
10) Always keep the bulk of your photos / music on an external drive or 2nd drive
11) Always use Google (www.google.com) for your Homepage for added security
12) Always shut down computer when finished